This is an utterly magnificent pair of enormous vases with lids accomplished in the Dresden manner. They feature fabulous hand-painted relief floral decorations and mythological scenes with beautiful putti. These stunning pieces are five feet tall and have lovely gilding throughout including the handles. Instill the refined elegance of a bygone era to a special place in your home with these fabulous vases. Please note that the grey marble stands shown in the photographs are not included in the price, but can be purchased separately if required. Condition: In excellent condition, please see photos for confirmation of condition. Dimensions in cm: Height 150 x Width 52 x Depth 44 Dimensions in inches: Height 4 feet, 11 inches x Width 1 foot, 8 inches x Depth 1 foot, 5 inches Dresden porcelain - A King's Obsession In the early 1700s, King Augustus II, prince elector of Saxony, held goldsmith Johann Bottger prisoner and commissioned him to create gold. Bottger instead discovered the method of creating porcelain, a favored and valuable item in the king's eyes.

 The king announced to Europe in 1710 that he would open a porcelain manufactory in Dresden. He instead opened one at nearby Albrechtsburg castle. Espionage was rampant, and the king guarded his porcelain secret, even though it meant imprisoning workers within the castle walls.

 By 1720, the secret was leaked and porcelain producers popped up in Vienna and Venice. Dresden porcelain adopted Saxon crossed swords in under-glaze blue as its distinguishing mark.

 In 1736, the porcelain manufactory produced the "Swan Service." It consists of 1,400 pieces, and is the largest, most lavish porcelain service ever created.

 In 1872, Dresden built its own manufactory to better establish its role in porcelain production. Our reference: 04326 Please feel free to email or call us (+44 20 8809 9605) to arrange a viewing in our North London warehouse. Shipping: We ship worldwide and deliver to Mainland UK addresses free of charge. A shipping cost to all other destinations must be requested prior to purchase. To request a shipping quote for the items in your cart, please click HERE. Delivery and return policy: We require that someone be home on the agreed delivery day if applicable, otherwise a redelivery fee will apply. In accordance with Distance Selling Regulations, we offer a 14-day money back guarantee if you are not satisfied with the item. The item must be returned in its original packaging and condition. Unless the item is not as described in a material way, the buyer is responsible for return shipping expenses. Buyers are fully responsible for any customs duties or local taxes that may be incurred on items sent outside of the European Union.